# Coalition Launch Checklist

*Community Engagement Hub — Coalition Building Toolkit*

A sequenced checklist for the first six months of a regional child care coalition.

## Months 1–2: Map and recruit

- [ ] Complete the regional asset-mapping worksheet (existing efforts, funders, champions)
- [ ] Identify a convener organization willing to own logistics for year one
- [ ] Draft a one-paragraph purpose statement (problem, not solution)
- [ ] List 10–12 candidate founding organizations; aim to seat 5–8
- [ ] Hold one-on-one conversations with each candidate before any group meeting
- [ ] Recruit at least two employer voices — not just service organizations

## Month 3: Convene

- [ ] Schedule the founding meeting (90 minutes, working session — not a presentation)
- [ ] Use the first convening agenda template
- [ ] Reach agreement on a shared problem statement
- [ ] Set a standing meeting cadence (monthly to start)
- [ ] Name interim roles: convener, note-taker, communications point

## Months 4–5: Structure

- [ ] Adopt a lightweight steering committee charter
- [ ] Post or assign the coalition coordinator role (paid or in-kind)
- [ ] Score candidate first projects with the quick-wins worksheet
- [ ] Choose ONE first project achievable within six months

## Month 6: Go public

- [ ] Publish the coalition's purpose statement and member list
- [ ] Send the first monthly update to members and champions
- [ ] Brief local media and elected officials
- [ ] Set a date to review progress against the problem statement

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*Demonstration content — adapt every item to your region.*